Nestled between the more accessible and well-known Hawaii Island’s Waipio and Pololu valleys is a stunning valley you’ve probably never even heard of. Waimanu Valley, the largest of several remote valleys on the Hamakua Coastline, is quite difficult to visit, but offers incredible views for anyone adventurous enough to tackle the nine-mile Muliwai Trail.
This intense backpacking trek is the only way to reach Waimanu Valley, and begins with several steep switchbacks up Wapio’s north face, traversing through miles of gulches and forests before descending Waimanu’s south face via another series of treacherous switchbacks to the valley floor.
Attack on Memory/Flickr
Even in the most favorable conditions, the trail will take experienced hikers up to seven hours to reach the valley, where adventurers will need to stop and camp for the night.
Nicole Yeager/Flickr
Nicole Yeager/Flickr
The valley is home to nine spacious campsites that will cost you $18/per night, and it is surely an unforgettable experience you will remember for the rest of your life. It is recommended that hikers secure camping permits for at least two nights in order to fully explore all that this lush valley has to offer.
Nicole Yeager/Flickr
Waimanu translates to “bird water” or “river of birds” in the Hawaiian language, and was once an ancient land division in Hawaii, though is now uninhabited.
Attack on Memory/Flickr
Nicole Yeager/Flickr
The lush, green valley is home to several streams and waterfalls, including the famed Waihilau Falls, Wai’ilikahi Falls and Lahomene Falls.
EyeTunes/Flickr
Oh, and did we mention that the valley is completely isolated? This means there is absolutely no cell phone reception, no electricity, or piped-in fresh water, and often, very few people – save your fellow hikers. Realistically, if you were to desire so, you could flee into the valley and disappear forever.
Attack on Memory/Flickr
Attack on Memory/Flickr
While this may appeal to some, the thought of being so isolated from the world is a scary thought for many. Anyone hiking the Muliwai Trail should bring enough food, water, and supplies to keep themselves – and their partners – alive, at least overnight.
Attack on Memory/Flickr
But if you aren’t into crazy hiking/camping trips, you can also get a glimpse into this lush, serene valley via helicopter. After all, it is true that more people have experienced Waimanu from the air than those who have actually walked on the valley floor.
Ryan Poole/Flickr
This Hawaiian utopia is sure to leave anyone who visits absolutely breathless – and not just because they’ve been hiking for nine miles. For detailed information about what to expect while tackling the arduous Muliwai Trail, check out this in-depth article posted by Frugal Frolicker.
Attack on Memory/Flickr
Nicole Yeager/Flickr
EyeTunes/Flickr
Ryan Poole/Flickr
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